Overview

Our Human Bioscience degree combines academic theory with applied practice. You’ll develop a broad understanding of the human biosciences and their significance in the contemporary world – and how you can apply that knowledge in the workplace.

You’ll study human function and structure in depth, the causes of abnormalities in humans and the consequences of human action. Typical areas of study include human physiology, cells and molecules, human neuroscience, and infection and immunity. In our specialist laboratories, we’ll also train you in the various scientific techniques used to study human biology.

Group study brings vital teamwork and communication skills, while in your final year you’ll get the chance to focus and develop your academic interests through an independent piece of laboratory-based research or a dissertation.

The degree will also launch you on a professional path and by the time you’ve finished, you will have partly met the academic and experience requirement for membership of the Royal Society of Biology and Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status.

Features and Benefits

There’s built-in flexibility so you can focus on specific aspects of human biology.

Our teaching and research laboratories include a point-of-care testing and clinical skills laboratory, blood biochemistry, biomechanics, motor control and exercise performance laboratories, and a purpose-built facility for the advanced practical study of physiology.

Our £3m Biomedicine building houses one of the few magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to be found outside a hospital setting.

This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology as meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status.

Accreditations, Awards and Endorsements

Endorsement This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology as meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status.

Our £3m building for Biomedicine research houses one of the few magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to be found outside a hospital.

Career Prospects

Biomedical and healthcare science graduates may go on to a range of subject-specific careers in the biological, pharmaceutical, clinical, medical, public health and other associated industries. Recent graduates have gone on to secure employment in laboratory/research work, the pharmaceutical industry, education and medical communications.

Your degree will also give you a wide variety of transferable skills that can be applied to non-subject specific career pathways such as in local government, environmental agencies, teaching, management and the civil service. For those who wish to continue their studies, we offer a range of postgraduate programmes across the breadth of healthcare sciences.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff points/grades required

104-112

104-112 UCAS Tariff Points at A2 (Grades BCC-BBC) to include minimum grade C at A2 in Biology, Human Biology or Applied Science and a Pass in your Biology A level practical. Other Sciences may be considered. General Studies not accepted.

Specific GCSE requirements

GCSE grade C or grade 4 in English Language, Science and Mathematics. GCSE Science and Mathematics requirement may be met through the Level 3 requirements for the course. Please contact the institution if further information is required.

IELTS score required for international students

Course details

Our biosciences degree will help you to build on your knowledge of human biology to make a positive impact on health and wellbeing. With us, you could be examining blood cells and microorganisms to help diagnose patients, investigating sleep cycles to treat disorders or conducting critical diagnostic procedures for cardiac patients.

The School of Healthcare Science has strong links to the NHS, hospitals and clinicians, which not only shape our curriculum but also ensure the skills you’re learning are fully relevant to the workplace.

Study human biosciences with us and you’ll emerge as an independent thinker who can apply critical analysis to real-world problems – with knowledge and laboratory skills in demand by healthcare organisations. In other words, exactly the attributes you’ll need to embark on a range of fascinating careers in the biological, pharmaceutical, clinical, medical, public health and other associated industries.

Typical areas of study include cell and molecular biology, physiological systems, physical activity and health, exercise and environmental physiology, neuroscience and pharmacology. Your final year individual project allows you to focus and develop your academic interests.

In Year 1 you will study four, 30-credit units. Please note that the following list of units is indicative and may be subject to change. Typical units may include:

Cell and Molecular Biology

Physiological Systems

Physical Activity and Health

Research Skills and Employability

Read more about this year of study

Core Units

Physiological Systems

The Physiological Systems unit introduces students to principles of human physiology at the organ system level with appropriate links to anatomy, cell biology, biochemistry and metabolism, disease pathology, pharmacology and therapeutics.

Cell and Molecular Biology

The unit provides a knowledge and understanding of biochemistry including basic organic chemistry. Biological molecules and their importance in cell structure and function are also studied. Students are introduced to microorganisms, with focus on the importance of identification and classification of microbes, and the techniques and skills required for their isolation, enumeration and microscopic examination.

Research Skills and Employability

This unit will lay the foundation for research skills and employability within the physiology, human biosciences and biomedical science sector. It will encompass ethical and legal issues whilst working in scientific research.

Physical Activity and Health

This unit will provide an introduction to a broad range of topics related to physical activity and health. It also allows students to become familiar with current issues and practical skills in the area of physical activity and health.

In Year 2 you will study four, 30-credit units. Please note that the following list of units is indicative and may be subject to change. Typical units may include:

Core units:

Exercise and Environmental Physiology

Neuroscience and Pharmacology

Techniques and Applications in Biomedical Science

Likely option units:

Blood Science

Infection Science

Read more about this year of study

Core Units

Techniques and Applications in Biomedical Science

This unit builds on the knowledge of nucleic acids and cell biology gained in level 4 and introduces students to the key principles of molecular diagnostics. The methodologies are described in depth and put in the context of disease diagnosis and biomedical research. Topics include various types of PCR, cloning, sequencing, immunoassays, bioinformatics and the utility of in vivo and in vitro models of disease. The application of omic technologies is also considered and discussed in the context of molecular epidemiology and biostatistics.

Exercise and Environmental Physiology

This unit aims to expand on knowledge of human and exercise physiology obtained during the first year by examining, in detail, the response of physiological systems to exercise and environmental stress.

Neuroscience and Pharmacology

Option Units

Infection Science

This unit investigates the role of microbiology in the diagnosis and treatment of disease, and the pathogenic changes that occur as a result of interactions between host and parasite. Throughout the unit, aspects of epidemiology and pharmacology will be used to describe prevention, control and treatment of infectious disease.

Blood Science

The Blood Science unit looks at the roles of haematology and clinical biochemistry laboratory tests in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease processes. A range of haematological and biochemical disorders are studied ranging from disorders of renal function and the endocrine system, to red blood cell disorders and haemostatic disorders.

In your final year, you will study four, 30-credit units. Please note that the following list of units is indicative and may be subject to change. Typical units may include:

Core units:

Current Issues in Physiology

Genetic Science

Project

Likely option units:

Advanced Cellular and Human Neuroscience

Biomedical Cell Biology

Physiology of Development and Ageing

Read more about this year of study

Core Units

Project

This unit allows all final year students to plan and undertake either a laboratory based research project or a library based dissertation in an area of their own interest. Students have the opportunity to develop a research question, plan an appropriate investigation and undertake that investigation under the guidance of an allocated supervisor.

Current Issues in Physiology

In this unit, students will study advanced topics in physiology, concentrating on aspects of current focus and strategic importance in scientific, public, governing and healthcare communities.

Genetic Science

The unit will cover current issues related to human genetics, particularly in relation to disease and the implications on public health. It will consider topics such as genetic principles, gene structure, function and regulation, population genetics, techniques, genetic basis of health and disease and genetic approaches which may be used to treat these.

Option Units

Biomedical Cell Biology

The Biomedical Cell Biology unit explores the cellular processes, cell cycle control and cell signalling events that occur during cell/tissue repair and regeneration, ageing and senescence, and human disorders. The cellular dysfunction that results as a consequence of ageing and disease development will be discussed in relation to normal cell function. Appropriate examples of biomedical techniques and model systems utilised in cell biology research will be highlighted to illustrate key concepts of the unit. Implications for biomedical research and medicine will be investigated, together with ethical issues relating to the field.

Assessment weightings and contact hours

10 credits equates to 100 hours of study, which is a combination of lectures, seminars and practical sessions, and independent study. A 3 year degree qualification typically comprises of 360 credits (120 credits per year). The exact composition of your study time and assessments for the course will vary according to your option choices and style of learning, but it could be:

Study

Year 120% lectures, seminars or similar; 80% independent study

Year 230% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study

Year 360% lectures, seminars or similar; 40% independent study

Assessment

Year 150% coursework; 50% examination

Year 260% coursework; 40% examination

Year 345% coursework; 55% examination

Optional foundation year

Study30% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study

Assessment70% coursework; 30% examination

Additional information about this course

The programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology

Department information

Teaching Staff

School of Healthcare Science

Our School of Healthcare Science boasts an international reputation, outstanding record in teaching and research, and state-of-the-art facilities.

The department has a reputation for excellent academic programmes, high student satisfaction, internationally recognised research and strong links to partners like the NHS, and individual hospitals and clinicians.

Taught by experts

Your studies are supported by a team of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field. We also work with external professionals, many of whom are Manchester Met alumni, to enhance your learning and appreciation of the wider subject.

Fees

Foundation Year students

UK, EU and Channel Island students: Full-time Foundation Year fee: £9,250 per year for the foundation year. This tuition fee is agreed subject to UK government policy and parliamentary regulation and may increase each academic year in line with inflation or UK government policy for both new and continuing students.

Non-EU international students: Full-time Foundation Year fee: £16,000 per year. When progressing from the pre-degree foundation year to the linked degree. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study)

UK, EU and Channel Island students

UK, EU and Channel Island students: Full-time fee: £9,250 per year. This tuition fee is agreed subject to UK government policy and parliamentary regulation and may increase each academic year in line with inflation or UK government policy for both new and continuing students.

UK, EU and Channel Island students: Part-time fee: £2312.50 per 30 credits studied per year. This tuition fee is agreed subject to UK government policy and parliamentary regulation and may increase each academic year in line with inflation or UK government policy for both new and continuing students.

Non-EU international students

Non-EU international students: Full-time fee: £16,000 per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Non-EU international students: Part-time fee: £4000 per 30 credits studied per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Additional Information

A degree typically comprises 360 credits, a DipHE 240 credits, a CertHE 120 credits, and an integrated Masters 480 credits. The tuition fee for the placement year for those courses that offer this option is £1,850, subject to inflationary increases based on government policy and providing you progress through the course in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study). The tuition fee for the study year abroad for those courses that offer this option is £1,385, subject to inflationary increases based on government policy and providing you progress through the course in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Part-time students may take a maximum of 90 credits each academic year.

Additional costs

Specialist Costs

£100

All of the books required for the course are available from the library. The University also has PC labs and a laptop loan service. However, many students choose to buy some of the core textbooks for the course and/or a laptop. Students may also need to print their assignments and other documents. Campus printing costs start from 5p per page. Estimated costs are £300 for a laptop up to £100 each year for books and printing. You will be provided with a laboratory coat and safety glasses on commencement of your programme. If you lose or damage these, replacement is your responsibility.

Placement Costs

There is no placement associated with this programme. Should you choose to undertake a year out in industry as work experience, separate to your academic programme, you will step off the programme for the duration of this activity.

Professional Costs

You may wish to join the Royal Society of Biology or the Physiological Society, particularly in your final year.

Funding

For further information on financing your studies or information about whether you may qualify for one of our bursaries and scholarships, follow the links below:

Your new home

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University isn’t just about learning. It’s about living. Find out all you need to know about accommodation here.

Being at university isn’t just about learning. It’s about living. Before you arrive, we’ll make sure you know where to go and what to do. And once you’re settled in, our team’s ready to support you during your stay.

From apartments and eco-friendly townhouses, to en-suite and standard rooms, we have all sorts of accommodation on (or near) campus. Whichever option is right for you, you’ll have a room complete with desk, heater, and storage, together with a shared kitchen, laundry facilities and free WiFi.

And in such a handy location, you’ll never be more than a few minutes from the library, Students’ Union, your next lecture or a bite to eat in one of the many nearby eateries.

Your new city

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We’re incredibly proud to be part of such a distinctive global city – and we think you will be too.

Manchester is a city of enterprise and sport, culture and diversity. Here, connections are formed and futures begun. Art, science and business coexist and collaborate. Actors and accountants, lawyers and linguists – they’ve all found a home for their ambitions.

We have sporting excellence, culinary creativity, digital innovation and thriving commerce. Entrepreneurs and entertainers. Theatre and music. A rich and distinctive culture. We have character, spirit and personality.

Here, you’ll find people of every type, making leaps in technology, taking strides in industry and creating art in every form. We have a proud heritage to look back on, and a vibrant and diverse future to look forward to, full of possibility and promise.

Your new University

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From advice and support to a fantastic Union and sports clubs, we’ve got your time here covered..

Whether you’re coming to Manchester from another continent or down the road, we’re here to help. As well as our Student Hubs, where you can get all sorts of information and advice, we offer a range of professional support services and social groups for our students.

Being part of our community, you’ll find societies, teams and groups that will help you make the most of your time here. This means you’ll have the chance to pursue your passions, but also to meet people with the same interests.

The Students’ Union is your voice in the University. Through the officials that you elect, the Union supports its members and stands up for your issues. And, with its building at the heart of the campus, it also provides you with a bar, shop, café, and event venue.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Programme ReviewOur programmes undergo an annual review and major review (normally at 6 year intervals) to ensure an up-to-date curriculum supported by the latest online learning technology. For further information on when we may make changes to our programmes, please see the changes section of our Terms and Conditions.

Important Notice This online prospectus provides an overview of our programmes of study and the University. We regularly update our online prospectus so that our published course information is accurate. Please check back to the online prospectus before making an application to us to access the most up to date information for your chosen course of study.

Confirmation of RegulatorThe Manchester Metropolitan University is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS is the independent regulator of higher education in England. More information on the role of the OfS and its regulatory framework can be found at officeforstudents.org.uk.

All higher education providers registered with the OfS must have a student protection plan in place. The student protection plan sets out what students can expect to happen should a course, campus, or institution close. Access our current Student Protection Plan.